The 360renos team completed its first hemp insulation install in a basement and we were impressed!! The insulating batts were from Nature Fibre, a Canadian made product fabricated in Quebec.
"Is Hemp Insulation the Eco-Friendly Alternative You've Been Searching For?"
What a great alternative from mineral insulation!
Hemp insulation is a sustainable and eco-friendly option for insulating basement walls. It is made from the fibers of the hemp plant, which is a renewable resource.
Hemp insulation can be a good choice for your basement finishing project due to its sustainability and effective performance. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to use hemp insulation in your basement:
Thermal Insulation: Hemp insulation provides effective thermal resistance, helping to keep your basement warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Sound Insulation: Hemp insulation can also absorb sound, helping to reduce noise transmission through the walls.
Moisture Control: Hemp is naturally mold-resistant and can handle some moisture without degrading, making it a good choice for basements, which are often prone to dampness.
Environmentally Friendly: Hemp is a sustainable material that grows quickly and requires little water and no pesticides to thrive. It also absorbs carbon dioxide as it grows, making it a carbon-neutral option.
Non-toxic: Hemp insulation is free of toxic chemicals and additives, making it a healthier choice for indoor air quality.
Installation: Hemp insulation is generally easy to handle and not itchy like traditional insulation. It comes in batts and can be cut to fit your wall dimensions. It can be more difficult to cut for installation.
You can install hemp insulation in any thickness you need. The batt sizes come standard to fit 2x4 and 2x6 wall cavities for 16 or 24" stud centers. Typical thicknesses available include 2", 3.5, 5.5, and 7.5 inches. You can stack these on each other if you want to go even thicker.
R- Values of R 8, R13, R20, R28.
Overall, hemp insulation can be a great choice for a basement finishing project due to its environmental benefits and effective performance. Consider your budget, local availability, and installation requirements when making your decision. It's also important to verify that the hemp insulation you choose complies with local building codes and standards.
The 360renos team installed R20, 5.5" thick hemp insulation batts along a basement wall.
We completed the wall with a high tech vapour barrier called CertainTeed Membrain.
CertainTeed's MemBrain is a smart vapor retarder that improves energy efficiency by controlling moisture levels in the wall assembly.
This innovative insulation solution is designed to adapt to changes in humidity levels, allowing moisture to escape when necessary, while still blocking moisture from entering the building envelope.
Dave
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